Which type of cells have only one set of chromosomes?a)Somatic cellsb)...
Gametes, or sex cells, have only one set of chromosomes, which combines with another gamete during fertilization to form a zygote with a full set of chromosomes.
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Which type of cells have only one set of chromosomes?a)Somatic cellsb)...
Understanding Chromosome Sets
In the context of cellular biology, it's essential to differentiate between types of cells based on their chromosome sets. The question asks which type of cell has only one set of chromosomes.
Types of Cells
- Somatic Cells: These are the body's non-reproductive cells. They contain two sets of chromosomes (diploid), one from each parent. Human somatic cells typically have 46 chromosomes (23 pairs).
- Gametogenesis: Gametes are reproductive cells—sperm in males and eggs in females. They possess only one set of chromosomes (haploid). In humans, gametes contain 23 chromosomes.
- Muscle Cells: Like somatic cells, muscle cells are also diploid, containing two sets of chromosomes.
- Nerve Cells: Similar to muscle and somatic cells, nerve cells are also diploid and have two sets of chromosomes.
Correct Answer: Gametes
The correct answer is option 'B' (Gametesc), as these cells uniquely possess only one set of chromosomes. This haploid condition is crucial for sexual reproduction, ensuring that when gametes fuse during fertilization, the resultant zygote has the correct diploid number of chromosomes.
Significance of Haploidy
- Genetic Diversity: The haploid nature of gametes allows for genetic variation through recombination and independent assortment during meiosis.
- Fertilization: The fusion of two haploid gametes restores the diploid state in the zygote, enabling the development of a new organism.
In summary, gametes are the only cell type in the given options that contain a single set of chromosomes, playing a vital role in reproduction and genetic diversity.